In a recent city council meeting, members discussed several key topics, including economic development, local business closures, and upcoming community events.

Councillor Grant initiated a motion that received unanimous support, highlighting the council's achievements in improving employee compensation and investing in economic development. The council plans to reconvene next week, as City Hall will be closed for Juneteenth.

A significant point of discussion was the closure of Commonwealth Poultry, a business in the local park that failed to meet revenue projections. The city manager expressed sadness over the closure but noted that the building's owners are actively seeking new tenants. In contrast, the old beef factory next door has been rented, with the new tenant currently pursuing USDA approvals to reopen.

The council also addressed the need for support for displaced employees from Commonwealth Poultry, with plans to follow up on potential assistance from the Department of Labor.

Additionally, the city received a $50,000 resiliency grant, which will be further detailed in upcoming meetings. The council discussed the appeal process for business licenses, particularly in light of recent close votes. A proposal was made to establish a licensing board to streamline the process and avoid direct appeals to Superior Court, which could be costly for applicants.

On infrastructure, the city manager reported progress on Harrison Avenue, with design plans nearing completion and a neighborhood meeting scheduled to address community concerns. The council is awaiting final numbers from FEMA to determine the city's financial responsibilities for the project.

Finally, council members expressed gratitude for community contributions, including volunteers for the recent Memorial Day parade and ongoing support for local initiatives. The meeting concluded with a reminder for residents to participate in the upcoming primary election, which includes a proposed 8% increase in the school budget.